The common cat’s-foot is a medicinal herb, which is hardly known in Germany, respectively because of its rarity is hardly used in homeopathy. Yet it can provide such useful services and, in addition to the known effects, can be used externally even for abrasions.
Occurrence and cultivation of the common cat’s paw.
It is only in the Alps from 2400 m above sea level that the earliest specimens of this plant with the unusual name are found. The common cat’s-foot, with the Latin name Antennaria dioica, belongs to the composite family. It is very rare in Germany and is a protected species. So rare, in fact, that it is listed on the Red List. The common cat’s-foot is found in the temperate and cold regions of Europe, North America and Asia. It prefers dry and nutrient-poor soils as it is the case with meager breeds or in forests. As an evergreen plant, the medicinal herb reaches a height of up to 30 cm. Only in the second year the plant sprouts flowers, which are very popular especially for the compilation of wildflower seeds. From May to July the plant shows its separately sexed inflorescences. Between three and twelve inflorescences are divided into female capitula with pink to purple leaves and male capitula with characteristic whitish-pink or dark red leaves. The plant is pollinated by moths. If you want to harvest it, you have to go high up: only in the Alps from 2400 m above sea level you can find the earliest specimens of this plant with the unusual name.
Effect and application
The common cat’s paw is said to have some effects, especially for the mucous membranes. However, due to its rarity, it is hardly used. It is known in phytotherapy, where it is often used for its diuretic effect. Diseases such as bladder and kidney diseases can be alleviated well with it. It has antibiotic, expectorant and anti-inflammatory effects. This makes it particularly suitable for all flu-like infections, problems and irritations of the mucous membranes, such as bronchitis, asthma, inflammation of the throat and oral cavities, but also for diarrhea and gall and liver complaints. The medicinal herb by its nature fights bacteria and helps to loosen stuck mucus due to its ejecting properties. This is mainly due to its components, which include tannins, flavonoids, bitter substances and coumarins. In addition, the medicinal plant is said to have a positive effect on metabolic disorders. The dried flowers are classically used to make a tea, for which about two spoonfuls of the medicinal plant are poured over with hot water and drunk shortly after meals. It is said to stimulate bile activity and has a diuretic effect. Instead of the tea, a tincture can also be prepared. For this purpose, flowers are placed in a sealable container and high-proof liquor (it is important that the alcohol is high-proof) is poured over it. The previously hot rinsed jar is closed and briefly turned upside down, then returned to its original position. After that, it should stand and infuse on the windowsill in the sun for at least 10 days. The tincture can now be taken in drops or used externally for gargling and rinsing. In the field of finished medicinal products, the common cat’s paw can be found in many teas for the indications of liver and gall bladder problems, as well as kidney and bladder problems. Taking preparations with the medicinal herb can influence the effect of other medications when taken at the same time. Therefore, it is important to use this plant or corresponding teas only after consultation with the attending healer or doctor.
Importance for health, treatment and prevention.
Anyone who feels a scratchy throat or a stomach tumor clearly indicates a bacterial problem is well advised to remedy the situation with a tincture or tea of the common cat’s paw. The tannins, resins and bitter substances ensure that an infection is prevented from spreading in the first place. Especially in the colder season or during weather transitions, the active ingredients of the common cat’s paw can provide relief for sensitive people.The plant has an antibacterial and ejecting effect: Thus, the smallest harbingers of an infection can be flushed out directly and the flu can be averted. So if you gargle regularly with common cat’s-weed or drink a cup of tea, you can strengthen your defenses. Due to the supporting metabolic effect, the teas are also suitable in case of dieting. The body detoxifies more effectively during the purification phase and thus supports the process of losing weight. But be careful: Those who need to take medication regularly should definitely coordinate the use of this herb. Because its active ingredients can influence and alter other medications. Due to its rarity, the plant is also often added to wildflower seeds. It is an extremely undemanding plant, making it particularly suitable for rock gardens and ornamental gardens. It also thrives without problems at wall joints. On top of that, it can quickly form decorative areas by forming runners. It only needs a sunny spot, otherwise no further care is required, such as watering or fertilizing. Common cat’s-foot is a completely frost-hardy plant, which makes it a grateful component of an ornamental garden. In addition, by integrating the plant into the home garden, a contribution is made to environmental protection.
